How A Nigerian Pastor Landed In Court Over Alleged N352,000 ‘Special Prayer’ Fraud In Lagos

David Eludi, a 44-year-old cleric, who allegedly obtained N352,000 from a woman under false pretences, has been dragged before an Ojo Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

The defendant, said to be a pastor, was arraigned on a three-count charge of conspiracy, obtaining by false pretences and stealing.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, Dr. Simon Uche, told the court that the defendant committed the offences in November at Jakande area of Ajangbadi in Ojo.

He said the defendant conspired with others, now at large, to collect N352,000 from Florence Samuel, with a promise to use the funds to liberate her from family curses.

Uche said the representation was found to be false, as the defendant failed to embark on any family liberation.

The prosecutor said the defendant converted the funds to his own use, without the consent of the complainant.

The offences, according to him, contravene sections 287, 314 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The Magistrate, Mr. L.K.J. Layeni, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N200,000, with two sureties in like sum.

He adjourned the case till January 12, 2024 for mention.